Apple Certified Refurbished review

Apple Certified Refurbished is the closest thing to buying a new iPhone. Apple says each refurbished iOS device comes with a new battery and outer shell, genuine Apple replacement parts as needed, full functional testing and all accessories, packed in a brand new white box with free shipping and returns. Every unit carries Apple's standard one-year limited warranty, and AppleCare can be added. The catch is price: Apple lists savings of up to 15%, and the cheapest refurbished iPhone on the check date was $659 for an iPhone 16 128GB or iPhone 15 Plus 128GB, unlocked. Older models such as the iPhone 13 were not listed. Apple's standard return policy allows returns within 14 days of receiving the product, shorter than the 30 days offered by Back Market, Reebelo and Gazelle. We compared documented policies and published prices only.

Who it is for

iPhone buyers who want a like-new phone backed by Apple

Price

From $659 one-time for an iPhone 16 128GB or iPhone 15 Plus 128GB.

Refurbished iPhone 16 128GB - Black (Unlocked) $659.00
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 12, 2026.

Key features

• Refurbished iOS devices come with a new battery and outer shell
• Genuine Apple replacement parts as needed, full functional testing and inspection
• Standard one-year limited warranty, with AppleCare available
• Brand new white box with all accessories and cables
• Free shipping and returns

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: New battery and outer shell on every refurbished iPhone
• Strength: AppleCare can extend coverage
• Strength: Unlocked iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 Pro models listed on the check date
• Weakness: Savings are up to 15%, the smallest on this list
• Weakness: Cheapest refurbished iPhone was $659 on the check date
• Weakness: Apple's standard return window is 14 days, shorter than the 30 days at marketplaces

Key facts

• Warranty: One-year limited warranty
• Battery: New battery
• Returns: 14 days, free
• Cheapest phone: iPhone 16 128GB at $659
• Savings: Up to 15%

Where it ranks

Apple Certified Refurbished is No. 3 in our Best Refurbished Phone Sellers verdict.